Violin by Hart and Son England

The Hart family’s connection to the violin world begins with John Thomas Hart (1805–1874), who apprenticed with Samuel Gilkes and, according to William Henley, handled more Cremonese master instruments than any of his British peers. His son, George Hart (1839–1891), became a renowned European dealer, connoisseur, and author of influential books on violins and makers. The firm Hart & Son was later established by George Hart’s son, also named George, on Wardour Street in London, where he led a team of makers and copyists producing fine English instruments and bows.